The singer and actress has starred in a string of rom coms, including Maid In Manhattan, Monster-In-Law and The Back-Up Plan. But her latest role is in new action thriller Parker with Jason Statham, and directed by Helen Mirren's husband Taylor Hackford.

J-Lo said: "After a string of romantic comedies, it was a nice thing to do. You have the drama and character but with that kind of suspense and action and it was just a perfect combination."

The former American Idol judge plays tough divorcee Leslie, who she admits is very different to her diva reputation, but insists is actually more like her real self.

Jennifer said: "In our first meeting, I asked Taylor why he wanted me to play this character because she's not exactly like what people think of me. He told me that was exactly why he wanted me.

"The image that people have of me from my music or American Idol or the romantic comedies I've done is very different."